Bell: Boost Kids Mental Health

STAUNTON — Del. Richard P. “Dickie” Bell on Thursday expressed frustrations with trying to convince many of his legislative colleagues and political leaders to make funding for children’s mental health a higher priority.

“It’s tough because we have an administration that is sympathetic to the needs” of children and adults with mental illness, said Bell, R-Staunton, at a legislative forum hosted by Valley Community Services Board and Mental Health America of Augusta.

“It’s hard when (leaders) are sympathetic, but they’re not willing to fund it ....

“It’s always the cost. It’s always about money,” Bell said. “We never talk about the real needs of children with mental health issues. What’s the cost to society if we don’t find the money?”